PETALING JAYA: Argentinian winger Manuel Hidalgo has capped off a memorable first full season with Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) by playing a key role in the club’s historic quadruple-winning campaign.
The 27-year-old was one of JDT’s standout performers this season, contributing goals and assists as the Southern Tigers swept the Super League, FA Cup, Malaysia Cup and Charity Shield titles for the fourth consecutive year — a feat unmatched in Malaysian football.
Hidalgo, a former Sheffield Wednesday player who idolises Argentine legend Diego Maradona, said the team were proud of another remarkable achievement.
“This team have achieved a lot of things that never happened before, so we are very happy,” said Hidalgo.
“Now we will rest and come back stronger next year.
“Next season, I want to stay here, continue enjoying football and try to do even better than this year, which was already very, very good. I just want to keep improving.”
Hidalgo enjoyed an impressive debut campaign with JDT, scoring 13 goals and providing 15 assists in 35 appearances across all competitions.
In the Malaysia Cup final at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil last Saturday, Hidalgo started the match against Kuching City before being substituted in the 35th minute in JDT’s 2-0 victory.
Although visibly disappointed at the time, he accepted coach Xisco Munoz’s decision.
“I think it was a tactical decision. The coach decided, so I just followed,” he said.
“I understand these things happen. After we won the game, I was still happy.”
Hidalgo also had high praise for Munoz, describing the Spaniard as an inspiring leader.
“He always speaks very well and he is an amazing leader,” said Hidalgo.
“Hearing him before going onto the pitch gives you a lot of hunger and motivation.
“He does everything for us and our families, so the only way we can repay him is by winning.”
The nippy winger has been playing in Malaysia since 2021, featuring for Pahang, Kedah, Kuala Lumpur on loan, and now JDT.
Having completed five years in Malaysian football, speculation is growing that Hidalgo could soon obtain Malaysian citizenship and become eligible to represent the national team at the FIFA Asean Cup in September.
When asked about his naturalisation status, Hidalgo said: “I think soon you will have answers.”
Pressed further on whether he was excited about the possibility, Hidalgo replied with a smile: “I hope so, yes. Very excited, very, very excited.”
